Jwick Taro vs. Dareu Violet Gold Pro
An in-depth look at the Jwick Taro and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches—which one is the best fit for you?
Overview
When comparing the Jwick Taro and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro mechanical keyboard switches, both offer a tactile typing experience but with slightly different characteristics. The Taro switches are praised for their cozy typing experience and medium-level of tactility, providing a snappy feel accompanied by crisp clacks. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro switches offer a medium tactility with a light touch and neutral sound signature, making them a well-balanced option for those seeking a tactile typing experience. While both switches have their unique qualities that make them appealing, such as the comfy color scheme of the Taro switches and the Goldilocks-like balance of the Violet Gold Pro switches, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. However, let's dive in a bit deeper beyond generalities so you can best decide on the best switch for you.
By the numbers
Technical specifications
Actuation force
N/A
Actuation force
45g
Bottom-out force
67g
Bottom-out force
N/A
Pre-travel
2.00 mm
Pre-travel
N/A
Total travel
3.70 mm
Total travel
3.80 mm
Factory lubed
No
Factory lubed
Yes
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem construction
Partial box
Stem material
POM
Stem material
POM
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Top housing material
Polycarbonate
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Bottom housing material
Nylon
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Mount type
PCB (5-pin)
Spring
Stainless steel
Spring
Gold-plated spring
Housing materials
In comparing the housing materials of the Jwick Taro and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, it is evident that both switches utilize polycarbonate for their top housings. This choice results in a sharper, higher-pitched, and crisper sound profile for both switches. Additionally, the translucent nature of polycarbonate is ideal for switches that plan to incorporate RGB lighting. However, the Jwick Taro separates itself by also using a nylon bottom housing, which contributes to a deeper and fuller sound profile. In contrast, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro utilizes a polycarbonate bottom housing, which may not absorb sound as much as nylon, creating a potentially brighter and more resonant sound.
Despite the difference in bottom housing material, both the Jwick Taro and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro benefit from the use of polycarbonate in their top housings. This results in similar characteristics in terms of sound profile and the visual appeal of translucent housing. However, where the Taro offers a softer and more absorbing nylon bottom housing for a deeper sound experience, the Violet Gold Pro's polycarbonate bottom housing may provide a crisper and more resonant sound. The choice between these two switches may ultimately come down to personal preference in sound profile and typing feel.
The impact of housing materials on switch performance is further emphasized by the division of qualities between the top and bottom housing of a switch. The bottom housing influences the bottom-out sound and feel, while the top housing affects the sound when a key is released. In the case of the Jwick Taro and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro, the combination of polycarbonate and nylon in the Taro creates a unique sound profile that combines sharpness with depth. On the other hand, the Violet Gold Pro's use of polycarbonate throughout may result in a more consistent sound throughout key presses. Ultimately, the choice between these switches will depend on the specific sound profile and tactile experience desired by the user.
Weight
When comparing the actuation force and bottom out force of the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, there are notable differences. The Taro has an actuation force of None grams, while the Violet Gold Pro has an actuation force of 45 grams, making the latter lighter in this aspect. On the other hand, the Taro has a bottom out force of 67 grams, which is medium-heavy, whereas the bottom out force of the Violet Gold Pro is unknown. This means that the Taro would provide a more substantial typing experience due to its heavier bottom out force, while the Violet Gold Pro would be lighter and potentially more suitable for longer typing sessions. In terms of similarities, if both switches have the same actuation force or bottom out force, users can expect similar results in terms of typing feel and experience. Ultimately, choosing between the two switches would depend on individual preferences for actuation and bottom out forces.
Travel distance
The Jwick Taro tactile switch has a travel distance of 3.7 mm, while the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch has a slightly longer travel distance of 3.8 mm. Both switches fall within the range of shorter travel distances, which are favored by gamers for quicker response times. The difference of 0.1 mm between the two may not be significant in terms of feel, but if you prefer a slightly deeper press, the Violet Gold Pro may be the better option. Ultimately, the choice between the two switches comes down to personal preference in terms of the tactile feel and responsiveness you desire.
Price comparison
Which switch is more bang for your buck?
The Jwick Taro has an MSRP of $5.50 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Taro for $4.25.
The Dareu Violet Gold Pro has an MSRP of $7.73 per 10 switches. At Milktooth, we are able to pass on savings to our customers and offer the Violet Gold Pro for $4.76.
Here at Milktooth, we offer the best prices on switches (on average, 27% lower the competition). In addition, we offer free shipping on orders over $49.00. We also offer free returns and exchanges, so you can shop with guaranteed satisfaction.
That said, while price is an important piece of the puzzle, our opinion is that you should ultimately pick the option that most suits your unique preferences since you’ll be using these switches for years to come. In other words, finding something perfect for you is, in our view, the most important criteria.
Typing experience
When it comes to sound, both the Jwick Taro and Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches offer a neutral sound profile with a moderate actuation force requirement. This makes them suitable for a variety of typing environments, whether at home or in a work setting. Keep in mind that the overall sound of the switches can also be influenced by the keyboard and keycaps used.
Moving on to feel, the Jwick Taro switches are praised for their buttery and stepped tactile feel, providing a smooth and fluid typing experience with a subtle two-stage sensation. On the other hand, the Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches are also described as having a stepped tactile feel, giving users a mild tactile feedback with some pre-travel and/or post-travel sensation. Both switches offer a comfortable typing experience ideal for those who enjoy a balance between tactile feedback and smooth keystrokes.
In conclusion, both the Jwick Taro and Dareu Violet Gold Pro switches offer similar qualities in terms of sound and feel. Whether you choose the Taro for its cozy tactile feedback and acute clacks or opt for the Violet Gold Pro for its balanced tactility and light touch, you can expect a satisfying typing experience with either switch. Ultimately, personal preference and typing style will play a significant role in determining which switch is the perfect fit for you.
Conclusion
In closing, when deciding between the Jwick Taro tactile switch and the Dareu Violet Gold Pro tactile switch, consider the following guidelines. Opt for the Taro switch if you prefer a medium-heavy bottom out force and enjoy a cozy typing experience with snappy tactility and crisp clacks. On the other hand, choose the Violet Gold Pro switch if you prefer a switch with no specified bottom out force, a light touch, and a balanced typing experience with medium tactility and neutral sound signature. Both switches offer a neutral sound profile, making them suitable for various purposes. Additionally, both switches are described as having a stepped feel, providing a more mild tactile experience compared to hypertactile switches. Ultimately, the decision between the Taro and Violet Gold Pro switches will depend on your personal preferences for typing feel and bottom out force.
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